In a new development which could hurt many seniors currently on prescription drug plans, the Kaiser Family Foundation has confirmed that from 2010, there would be an average 11% increase in the monthly premium seniors pay for "stand-alone drug plans", with the new figure to stand at $38.94 per month. If they continue with their current plans, it has been estimated that as many as 1.2 million beneficiaries would pay $10 more every month towards the premium.

For seniors who are getting drug coverage as a part of Medicare Advantage, Federal Government subsidized health plans offered via private insurers, the rise would be even more. An average of 32% increment would be seen in premiums to $48 a month.

With the move, announcement of which has worried seniors all over the country, health-policy analyst are of the view that many seniors would lose out on their medicine advantage plans all together, while others would see a significant reduction in benefits. Some might have to give up on vision, dental or some other benefits which are not covered by Medicare traditionally and are otherwise expensive.

With the new premium rates to start soon, seniors are now being encouraged to "shop around" and find a deal with would benefit them the most. "They should compare plans to look for plans that provide a better deal", said Tricia Neuman, Vice President and Director of the Medicare Policy Project at the Kaiser Family Foundation.